We have a vacuum packer. In the past I placed an oxygen absorber inside ( to scavenge any remaining 02) then vacuum packed any dry goods, then placed it in a sealed container. Also allowed me to break down bulk goods into more manageable amounts for use.
“We have a vacuum packer. In the past I placed an oxygen absorber inside ( to scavenge any remaining 02) then vacuum packed any dry goods, then placed it in a sealed container. Also allowed me to break down bulk goods into more manageable amounts for use.”
Yes! We bought a VB some time ago and it’s one of the most useful tools we have. I re-packed our coffee beans by putting the whole bag into a new vacuum bag along with a fresh O2 absorber, then vacuumed it tight. I can fit four bags to a bucket (and we are adding more coffee very soon...).
The bagger is great for meat because if there is no air, the meat cannot get freezer burn. I’ve used it to vacuum pack some of our emergency medical supplies too.
Another important tool has been our dehydrator. We picked up a reconditioned Excaliber dehydrator for about half price, and it’s simply outstanding for drying food. It makes excellent jerky and does a great job on veggies and fruit.
Water is always an issue, and that too is a subject worthy of it’s own thread. However, I have a pretty good rainwater collection system already set up and I can hold about 200 gallons right now, and I have four more barrels inbound that will be available if needed. Rainwater is fresh water, (as opposed to salt water) and it’s pretty straight forward to filter/boil/sanitize rainwater for drinking. Part of the reason for stocking lots of teabags is because tea is a great way to flavor boiled water which tastes flat and/or funky.
Medical needs and supplies is another subject as well, and I have a separate store for hygiene items, minor medical supplies, our own prescriptions and a good first aid kit that is also part of the 72 Hour evacuation kit.
I just found a great emergency radio too...
http://www.hurricanestore.com/product239.html
“The Kaito Voyager is the ultimate emergency and survival radio. It pulls in 7 bands of radio, including short wave and NOAA weather radio. The crank dynamo and solar panels (with adjustable position) can both charge the internal rechargeable battery for unlimited power. Lighting options include an LED flashlight, 5-LED reading light, and blinking red emergency light. The built-in USB adapter can be used to charge small electronics, including MP3 players and cell phones. In addition, 6 adapters provide connection for many popular cell phones. NOAA Weather Alert signals weather emergencies in the area.”